General Dentist and Cosmetic Dentist: What's the DIfference?
What sets a cosmetic dentist apart from a general dentist and how do they differ in practice?
The terms "general dentist" and "cosmetic dentist" are bandied around rather frequently in everyday conversation. You might not be aware that there is a fairly substantial distinction between them due to the fact that they are both referred to as "dentists," even though many dentists perform both services. So, what's the difference between a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist? General dentists perform the essential procedures that are necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums, whereas cosmetic dentists focus on the appearance of patients' smiles.
What to Look for in a Dentist Who Specializes in Cosmetic Procedures
Choose a cosmetic dentist who concentrates on the attractiveness of your smile if your teeth and gums are in good health but you are still self-conscious about how your smile looks. In this way, you can rest assured that they have a significant amount of experience performing cosmetic dental procedures. The following are some of the services that a qualified cosmetic dentist will provide in order to give you the smile you have always dreamed of having:
Having your teeth whitened by a dental professional — In only one appointment at the dentist, you may have your teeth whitened professionally using a product such as ZOOM!, which will leave them looking brilliant and stunning. During this procedure, each tooth will first be painted with the Zoom! whitening solution, and then it will be subjected to a specific light that will activate the treatment. This procedure, which may be performed as many as four times to achieve the desired results, is typically the initial step in a comprehensive smile makeover (unless orthodontic therapy is required). Because the color of porcelain or ceramic restorations cannot be lightened once they have been put, it is recommended that patients have their teeth whitened prior to having crowns or veneers.
Dental veneers are a versatile cosmetic treatment that can be used to cover teeth with intrinsic stains that are resistant to whitening treatments as well as teeth that are chipped, deformed, worn down, or misaligned. Dental veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth that are caused by misalignment. They can also be used in conjunction with teeth whitening to produce a smile that is whiter and more consistent.
Aesthetic dental bonding - This treatment can be used to remedy concerns that are comparable to those that are addressed with dental veneers in order to get the same results at a lesser cost. On the other hand, it's possible that this alternative won't endure as long as veneers.
Porcelain crowns are a type of dental restoration that can be used to restore a tooth that has sustained damage that is more severe than what can be fixed by a dental veneer. A dental crown will replace the whole section of a tooth that is visible in contrast to dental veneers, which only repair the front surfaces of teeth.
Replacing missing teeth with dental implants, the most thorough approach to tooth replacement Dental implants are the most comprehensive approach to tooth replacement. Dental implants provide a solution to tooth loss that is both stable and long-lasting, in contrast to fixed bridges, which merely repair the section of the lost tooth that is visible in the mouth.
Aligning your teeth discretely using Invisalign® — Dental aligners from Invisalign® are an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth that are crooked, crowded, or otherwise improperly aligned. After completing your Invisalign® treatment, you will be able to utilize the aligners with a teeth whitener that is designed for professional usage to get a smile that is both straighter and whiter.
Considerations to Make When Choosing a Family Dentist To reduce the amount of times patients have to be sent to other specialists, a comprehensive general dental practitioner ought to offer a variety of dental specialties. You should read the evaluations on their website to get an idea of their levels of expertise, levels of competence, and backgrounds before hiring them. A comprehensive dental office will employ at least two dentists, each of whom will focus their practice on one of the following areas of dentistry:
Preventative care – The fundamentals of general dentistry involve performing an examination of the patient's teeth and gums in addition to analyzing x-rays in order to establish the most effective method to treat existing tooth decay. This method may include the placement of fillings, inlays, onlays, or crowns. Sealants and fluoride treatments are examples of preventative interventions that should be made available.
Periodontal care - Also known as gum health maintenance and periodontal disease treatment, periodontal care is provided by a periodontist. Inflammation, abscesses, the loss of teeth, and deterioration of the jaw bone can all be caused by gum disease. In addition to this, it has been related to a number of systemic health issues.
Endodontics refers to the practice of treating the interior of teeth, also known as "the pulp," which is made up of connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. An endodontist can perform this procedure. Root canal therapy is a frequent procedure that dentists like these use to treat diseased teeth.
An oral surgeon is a specialist who is able to execute difficult extractions such as the removal of wisdom teeth. Oral surgeons are the most common medical professionals responsible for placing dental implants, while other specialists are capable of performing this treatment.
Orthodontics — If you have crooked teeth, having an orthodontist on-site can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.
A Reputable Cosmetic Dentist in Summerlin Who You Can Trust When looking to improve the appearance of their smile, people who already have an excellent general dentist frequently go to a cosmetic dentist who has a strong reputation in the field. Dr. Marianne Cohan has dental offices in Las Vegas, Nevada, to provide exceptional cosmetic dental care for her patients. New patients are welcome to make an appointment with Dr. Cohan at this time. To schedule an appointment at our dental office in Summerlin, please give us a call now.
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
The following are some of the services that a qualified cosmetic dentist will provide in order to give you the smile you have always dreamed of having:
